The Mass Effect series, whether it's the original trilogy or Andromeda, has a litany of exciting main missions. They mostly depict Shepard and Ryder's battles with the main antagonistic force they're currently facing. But those aren't the only adventures the protagonists have in the games.
As every entry is an RPG, there is also an abundance of side content. These allow the games to focus on different characters, situations, and species that the main questline doesn't feature too much. And it just so happens they're some of the most enjoyable missions in the series. The following ones, in particular, are great.
8 X57: Bring Down The Sky – Mass Effect
Batarians don't always get the time to shine throughout the Mass Effect series. You meet a bunch of them while playing through the games, but they're usually just mercs that are part of a larger mix-species group. They're given the spotlight during the Bring Down The Sky DLC, though.
In it, a group of Batarians is attempting to destroy a colony. As it's an expansion, a lot happens in the mission. There are Mako sections, tough choices, and an exhilarating fight at the end. It's easily the most exciting and noteworthy side mission in the first game.
7 Kasumi: Stealing Memory – Mass Effect 2
A good video game heist is always fun, and that is certainly the case for the one in Kasumi: Stealing Memory. The mission sees you and the master thief Kasumi infiltrate a party. During the soiree, you have to get into the host's vault to steal back the graybox he took from Kasumi's old partner.
While the gameplay stretch in the latter part of the quest isn't anything special, the heist aspect is amazing. Not only is it cleverly done, but it's so different from the usual Mass Effect quest. Plus, the cutscene at the end of the escapade isn't bad either, as it's very emotional.
6 Despoina: Leviathan - Mass Effect 3
The last mission of the Leviathan DLC sees Shepard and crew attempt to find the Leviathan monster they're tracking. This takes them to an ocean planet. More specifically, they visit a wreck amid the ocean near where the mysterious creature is supposed to be.
The actual combat of this mission is limited. There are a few fights, but they aren't very memorable. Yet, the quest is great because of Shepard's fascinating meeting with the Leviathan. During their discussion, you learn so much about this mysterious creature and The Reapers. So much so that this conversation should've been a part of the main story.
5 Jack: Subject Zero – Mass Effect 2
The great thing about Mass Effect 2's loyalty missions is that they give you a deeper look at your squadmates. This is especially good for closed-off characters like Jack.
When you visit the awful facility in which she grew up, you get an insight into why she's the untrusting and unstable person she is today. Plus, during the visit, she also discovers things about herself and her origins. This all makes for a very compelling mission. The combat sections aren't bad, either, especially the one that pits you against a few Krogan.
4 Legion: A House Divided – Mass Effect 2
In the first game, the Geth are presented as cruel, unfeeling machines that you're encouraged to kill. They don't get the same type of introduction as the other races, and you don't get the chance to really learn about them.
Interactions with Legion in Mass Effect 2 change things, especially during his loyalty mission. You find out a lot more about the Geth and the way they work. You also learn their reasons for joining The Reapers and the fact, not every unit agreed to the decision. That alone makes the mission compelling. Yet, the unique and strategic combat sections in this one also help enhance the experience.
3 Tali: Treason – Mass Effect 2
Tali is arguably the best and most likable companion in the series. So, of course, you are never going to let anyone disparage her name. This is why you need to act when she is accused of treason in Mass Effect 2. The proceeding mission is a unique and exciting one where Tali stands trial.
A large chunk of the escapade sees you and Tali attempting to retrieve a ship from the Geth. This is a very entertaining sequence, but things get even better when the trial gets underway. You need to use your conversation and dialogue-choosing skills to get the best outcome for your friend. Plus, you must decide what the best outcome really is. It's a true moral quandary that goes beyond a simple Paragon or Renegade choice.
2 Kallini: Ardat-Yakshi Monastery – Mass Effect 3
After learning about Samara's Ardat-Yakshi daughters in Mass Effect 2, you get to visit the Monastery they call home in the third game. The visit doesn't occur under the best circumstances, though. After all, the place is being attacked by Reaper forces.
The opening part of the mission is amazing, as you creep around the dark and atmospheric Monastery, looking for survivors and information about what happened to the place. Things change once you run into Reaper drones and, eventually, Samara. Yet, the quality of the mission doesn't decrease, as there are some well-designed fights in this one. The final skirmish with the Banshees is particularly exhilarating.
1 Lair Of The Shadow Broker – Mass Effect 2
Despite feeling like a series of quests, Mass Effect 2 recognizes the Lair Of The Shadow Broker as one long mission. As such, not only is it one of the best DLCs in the series, but it's also among the greatest side missions. In it, you team up with Liara to track down and stop The Shadow Broker. But you can't just get ahold of him straight away.
First, you have to deal with his Spectre associate, Tela Vasir. That objective results in a thrilling high-speed chase and iconic battle. Then you get an enjoyable sequence where you break into The Shadow Broker's ship, kill all his guards, and then face him. All those gameplay sections are fun, and the story is brilliant. Overall, it's a perfect example of what makes the series so great.